Both teams will be without one of their first-choice strikers, with Dundalk missing Ian Ferguson due to knee ligament damage and Shelbourne almost certain to omit Stephen Geoghegan due to a groin strain.

The visitors are likely, in fact, to be unchanged from the side which beat Shamrock Rovers 2-0 last weekend. Mick Neville is suspended which limits Damien Richardson's options at the back, while Liam Kelly and Dessie Baker will probably start up front after a solid showing last weekend.

Jim McLaughlin, meanwhile, must do a bit of chopping and changing as he seeks to find a combination that can score the club's first goal since the win over Swilly in the first round.

Raymond Campbell will start on the right, but David Hoey is doubtful with a muscle strain and Ronnie McQuilter is cup-tied. Shane Reddish returns, however, and Mick Doohan, who played up front last week, will almost certainly start at the heart of defence, with the early season striking partnership of Brian Byrne and Peter Withnell reunited.

Route to second round: Dundalk bt Swilly Rovers 5-0; Shelbourne bt Limerick 4-1.

Betting: Home: 100/30; Draw: 2/1; Away: 5/6.

Possible replay date: Sunday, Feb 8th at 3.0.

Referee: J McDermott (Dublin).